3rd - 5th Grade

Teachers build on basic skills students learned in earlier grades to help students apply higher-level thinking to all subjects. Improved reading comprehension opens doors to a deeper understanding of ideas, topics and events. Socially, children begin to internalize values like respect and cooperation, and learn more personal responsibility. Most importantly, students build the skills they need to succeed in middle school.

Math
Curriculum

Math

Children strengthen multiplication, division and fraction skills. They learn place value for large numbers, and decimals. Teachers expand geometry skills through the study of more complex two and three- dimensional states. Preparing for algebra, students graph data and evaluate expressions. As they progress, students learn to select the right strategy to solve real-world math problems.

Science
Curriculum

Science

Children study more complex human and animal systems. In Earth science, children study forces that act on the Earth, like erosion, rock formation and the hydrosphere. In Physics, they build an understanding of matter and energy. They explore the properties of waves, like sound, light and color. Children begin to connect concepts to real-life applications in technology, mechanics and engineering.

Social Studies
Curriculum

Social Studies

Children study the values and principles of American democracy, and their responsibilities as citizens. They learn about the structures and functions of government, economics, and human systems. In Geography, students explore countries and continents. History focuses on the birth of the United States. Studying the life of indigenous and colonial people, students learn about exploration, colonization, slavery, and the American revolution.

Specials
Curriculum

Specials

Children study art, music, physical education and technology.

We're More than Academics

Strong hearts and minds impact the world in amazing ways. Virtues such as respect, perseverance, compassion, and courage are essential to what kids need to succeed and an essential part of what we teach. We make them part of every school day. This helps students learn the importance of making good decisions and doing the right thing in life. Moral Focus is so integrated into everything we do:

We created a curriculum specifically around Moral Focus.

We celebrate a “virtue of the month” every month.

Our students create a class contract where students agree how to treat their teacher and each other.

Students are recognized and celebrated for how they live out Moral Focus every day.

NHA Parent

The moral focus curriculum is awesome! My kids are learning things that we are trying to teach them at home. It’s being reinforced here at school in fun and creative ways.

Monthly Virtues

Wisdom

Use good judgment to make decisions

Respect

Treat others the way you want to be treated

Gratitude

Appreciate the kindness and generosity of others

Self-control

Manage your emotions and behavior to stay calm

Perseverance

Persist through difficulties until you reach your goal

Courage

Despite fear, do what you believe is right

Encouragement

Motivate others to have confidence in themselves

Compassion

Help and care for others during times of need

Integrity

Do what is right, honorable, and good

Parent

Spotlight

"I recently volunteered for my daughter's class field trip to Art Prize in Grand Rapids. I am not sure who learned more - me or the kids! The Art Prize artists were so kind sharing the stories of their artwork with the kids. The kids were tasked with choosing one of their school's virtues like compassion, perseverance, or wisdom to match with the artist's piece."

Preparing your child for a lifetime of success

See what happens when hard work, personal responsibility, and a nurturing school community combine to create one exceptional experience. Founded on academic excellence, moral focus, parental partnership, and student responsibility, River City Scholars Charter Academy is a school like no other—one that can lead your child to a lifetime of success.

Apply Now

We can't wait to share in your child's journey! Apply online, in person or over the phone, and don't hesitate to ask questions along the way. We are here for you!